Senators acquire land that could be used for new arena

A group led by Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk reached an agreement in principle with the National Capital Commission on Thursday to redevelop LeBreton Flats, a 53-acre parcel of land the Senators could use to build an arena in downtown Ottawa.

The Rendezvous Lebreton Group proposal includes an 18,000-seat arena with views toward Parliament and the Ottawa River, and Sensplex, a community complex that would have two NHL-size hockey rinks, according to the commission.
"My goal has always been to provide the Senators with home-ice advantage," Melnyk tweeted Thursday. "Though there are still many hurdles to overcome, I'm thrilled to be one step closer to a more enjoyable fan experience and realizing a vision for LeBreton Flats."
The Senators have played at what is now know as Canadian Tire Centre in suburban Kanata, Ontario since 1996.